Antimicrobial dental materials, restorations, and prostheses

Abstract

The present invention relates to compositions and methods for antimicrobial dental materials in the restoration of the sequelae of oral infections including replacement of oral tissues lost to disease and prevention of additional infections.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to compositions and methods for antimicrobial dental materials. These dental materials reduce the likelihood or severity of oral infections during restoration or replacement of oral tissues lost to disease. The antimicrobial dental materials include, but are not limited to, dental restorations, dental coatings and sealants, preventive varnishes, dental prosthetic restorations, crown and bridge prosthetics, removable partial and full dentures, dental cements and luting agents, dental bases and liners, dental (cavity-lining) varnishes, dental implants, fixed partial and full dentures, endodontic materials and orthodontic appliances, bands, brackets and space maintainers. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Oral diseases are a major affliction to mankind. Dental caries (tooth decay) and periodontal diseases are the major diseases affecting the oral cavity. Bacterial plaque is the principal causative agent of dental ca...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0016] In still another embodiment of the present invention, the antimicrobial agent is in the form of a small molecule, oligomer, polymer or nanoparticle.

Problems solved by technology

Oral diseases are a major affliction to mankind.

Caries continues to be a major public health problem despite many scientific advances.

Pits and fissures in the occlusal surfaces of permanent teeth are particularly susceptible to decay, and fluoride treatments have been least effective in preventing caries in these areas.

Pits and fissures on the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth are more susceptible to caries because the morphology of the surface structure is irregular and there is opportunity for food retention and bacterial proliferation leading to caries initiation.

These applications are not well supported with data, but their clinical use is widespread.

Periodontal diseases are also a major affliction to mankind.

These devices require motor skill and dexterity.

These methods are often limited in their effectiveness in plaque removal.

These materials are all prone to dental plaque accumulation as well.

The translocation of periodontopathic bacteria from residual dentition or secondary oral reservoirs (e.g., dorsal tongue surfaces and peri-tonsillar areas) may contribute to dental implant failure.

Growth of yeast organisms on removable partial or full dentures can result in oral candadiasis.

Accumulation of dental plaque around orthodontic bands and brackets can lead to “white spot” lesions and dental caries.

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